The surviving conjoined twin has been transferred to Steve Biko Central and Academic Hospital for continuous care.
The Department of Health confirmed that the infant was airlifted to the Pretoria state facility for urgent care following his brother’s death on Friday.
The boys were born on January 28 at the Mankweng Hospital in Limpopo, and were successfully separated in a highly complex operation at Mankweng Hospital on March 17, a procedure handled by a specialist multidisciplinary team.
“Following a multidisciplinary clinical team meeting, because of the tragic loss of Twin A, the clinical team recommended that the remaining Twin B be transferred to Steve Biko Central and Academic Hospital for continuous care,” said Department of Health spokesperson Ndavhe Ramakuela.
The department revealed that Twin A’s death has taken an emotional toll on staff.
“While the loss of Twin A has affected everyone, team Mankweng Hospital has been understandably deeply affected, hence it was critical to allow another team in a different and protected environment to continue with care,” Ramakuela said.
He said the transfer is a precautionary step to ensure the surviving twin receives ongoing treatment, as the provincial government continues to support both the medical teams and the family during this difficult time.
Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi pictured going to visit the brothers following their groundbreaking surgery
Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba, revealed that the death of one of the conjoined twins may have been caused by visitors sneaking in to see the twins.
In an interview with eNCA, she said amajor concern was infection.
Ramathuba said the biggest risks are before, during and after the operation. She explained that infection is the main concern before surgery, which is why visitors are not allowed, though some people break the rule.
She added that while theoperation was successful,the first few weeks afterward are very sensitive. Many newborns can develop sepsis because their immune systems are weak, even in ICU, and it is not always clear what may have happened.
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